Channel migrants: The real reason so many are fleeing Vietnam for the UK

In recent months, a significant number of Vietnamese individuals have attempted to cross the English Channel in small boats, making them the largest group of migrants arriving in the UK by this method. This trend is particularly striking given that Vietnam is recognized as one of the fastest-growing economies in the world. The question arises: why are so many people willing to risk their lives to reach Britain? Phuong, a young woman from Vietnam, found herself in a precarious situation as she contemplated boarding a small inflatable boat that was dangerously overcrowded with 70 other passengers. The fear and desperation on their faces were palpable, and Phuong was acutely aware of the risks involved. She had already faced numerous challenges on her journey, including being turned back three times due to adverse weather conditions and mechanical failures. Despite these setbacks, Phuong felt compelled to continue her journey, driven by the hope of reuniting with her sister, Hien, who had successfully settled in London. Phuong had borrowed a staggering £25,000 to fund her trip, and turning back was simply not an option for her. Today, she resides in London with her sister, but her status remains undocumented, leaving her in a vulnerable position. The story of Phuong is not unique; in the first half of 2024, Vietnamese migrants accounted for the highest number of small boat arrivals in the UK, surpassing individuals from countries facing severe human rights issues, such as Afghanistan and Iran. This phenomenon highlights the extraordinary lengths to which Vietnamese migrants are willing to go to reach Britain, despite the well-documented risks associated with such journeys. Reports indicate that Vietnamese smuggling syndicates are operating successfully, facilitating these perilous crossings. Unfortunately, some migrants fall victim to human trafficking, ending up in exploitative situations such as forced labor in illegal marijuana farms or sex work. Despite the economic growth in Vietnam, which has been described as a 'mini-China' due to its manufacturing capabilities, many individuals still feel compelled to leave. The per capita income in Vietnam has increased significantly over the past two decades, yet the disparity between urban and rural areas remains stark. Many workers, particularly those with limited skills, find themselves trapped in low-paying jobs with little opportunity for advancement. Nguyen Khac Giang, a Vietnamese academic, notes that for many, there is a 'glass ceiling' that prevents them from achieving their dreams, even if they work tirelessly. Phuong's story reflects this struggle; she hails from Haiphong, Vietnam's third-largest city, where job opportunities have dwindled since the pandemic. At 38 years old, she yearns for the stability and security that her sister has found in London. Hien's journey to the UK was fraught with challenges, as she was smuggled inside a shipping container and incurred significant debt. However, she managed to repay her loans within two years by working long hours in various jobs. Hien's success has fueled Phuong's desire to seek a better life for herself, as she dreams of saving money and starting a family. The desire to migrate is not a new phenomenon in Vietnam; it has historical roots dating back to the 1970s and 80s when many fled the country due to economic hardships. The Vietnamese government has made efforts to promote legal migration, but the high costs and low wages associated with official channels often deter individuals from pursuing these options. As a result, many turn to illegal routes, despite the inherent dangers. The tragic deaths of Vietnamese migrants attempting to cross the Channel in 2019 serve as a stark reminder of the risks involved. Yet, the allure of success stories continues to overshadow these tragedies, leading many to believe that the potential rewards outweigh the dangers. In communities like Nghe An, where Phuong is from, the prevailing attitude remains one of optimism, with families pooling resources to support the migration of their children. The Vietnamese government has launched campaigns to raise awareness about the risks of illegal migration, but these efforts may not be enough to deter individuals from pursuing their dreams abroad. Until more appealing economic opportunities arise in Vietnam, the trend of migration is likely to persist, as individuals seek to improve their living standards and provide for their families.